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# OPCC didn’t create the homeless
- URL: https://www.smdp.com/opcc-didnt-create-the-homeless-editor/
- Published: 2007-08-30T15:00:00.000Z
- Updated: 2026-10-24T02:44:04.000Z
- Author: Guest Author
- Tags: Opinion, Santa Monica, #archive-import, Homeless, Homelessness

*By John Maceri Executive Director, OPCC*

Bill Bauer’s column on Aug. 27, “New portal for the Westside’s homeless,” contains numerous inaccuracies and false allegations, apparently based on Mr. Bauer’s intention to use “rumors” from “reliable sources” as the basis for his assertions. The claim that OPCC will be involved in bussing people here to Santa Monica to enroll in services is not only ludicrous, it’s absolutely false.

There are enough homeless people living on the streets in Santa Monica who need our attention and care. We have neither the desire nor the resources to bus people into Santa Monica, and our emphasis has been, and continues to be, giving priority to serving people already here in this community. The new Access Center will provide opportunities for homeless individuals and families to connect with the support systems and services they need to move off the streets and into housing. The numerous collaborations we have with other organizations to provide medical and mental health care, substance abuse treatment and employment assistance aren’t “just one more magnet to attract and keep ‘em here.” On the contrary, they are the very resources these individuals need to make the difficult life-changes that lead to stability and self-sufficiency.

If we don’t want people living on our streets, then we need to provide adequate housing and supportive services. The alternative is to ignore the problem and pretend that it will go away, or to blame those who are on the front lines every day doing the difficult work of helping people rebuild their lives. Homelessness is an ugly condition. It’s not good for the person living on the street, and it’s not good for residents, businesses or visitors. OPCC didn’t create the public policy decisions that have resulted in Los Angeles County becoming the homeless capital of this country, and we certainly can’t take any credit for the beach, thriving tourist industry and temperate climate that make Santa Monica a world class destination for both housed and homeless people. What we can take credit for is the willingness to continue to reach out and serve the poorest and most destitute with compassion, even in the face of unfair and unfounded criticism.

*Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on August 30, 2007.* [Read the original PDF.](https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/smdp%5Fbackissues/083007.pdf?ref=smdp.com)